The Bangladesh government has launched multiple measures to keep essential commodity prices stable ahead of the upcoming Ramadan. According to Trade Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin, preparations for supply and market management are satisfactory, with import letters of credit exceeding last year’s levels. The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has reduced import duties on dates by 40 percent, lowering the rate from 25 to 15 percent until March 31, and removed VAT on several daily essentials including mustard oil, flour, lentils, LPG, biscuits, salt, and spices.

The NBR has also halved advance income tax on fruit imports from 10 to 5 percent, maintaining a 50 percent rebate introduced last year. Market visits show lower prices for chicken, beef, mutton, sugar, onions, and potatoes compared to last year. Residents and traders in Dhaka report improved affordability, crediting government oversight and increased imports. The Department of Agricultural Marketing’s data indicates that prices of 20 key agricultural products have fallen since the 2024 mass uprising, with notable declines in potatoes, onions, garlic, and pulses.

Officials and traders expect further price reductions before Ramadan if current monitoring and supply conditions continue.